Investigation on leaf litter decomposition in Populus nigra L. and Juglans regia L.

Leaves which are under abscission in autumn form most of the organic litter layer in terrestrial ecosystems. Litter is decomposed by bacteria, fungi and other organisms by time and form the main source of the organic matters in the ecosystems. Litter decomposition is an important process which regulates the food chain and continuity of the soil. The quantity of organic matters like carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus which is formed by the litter decomposition affects the ecosystem diversity and efficiency. In this study, leaf litter decomposition of Populus nigra and Juglans regia species are examined. Besides, the particle size of leaves, litter thickness on the ground, the depth of soil and home field effect are also examined by their contribution to decomposition process. This study is conducted in the Suluova of Amasya province which is located in the Black sea region of Turkey. Senesens Populus nigra L. (poplar) and Juglans regia L. (walnut) are used as materials in this study. The examination of decomposition rate is done by standard litter bag method. Decomposition of leaves were examined for six months. Carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus are analyzed in the decomposed leaf samples monthly. Results showed that, particle size of leaves, litter thickness on the ground and the depth of soil affected decomposition rate. Type and degree of effects were varied according to species. C, N and P concentrations in decomposing leaf litter differed according to months. But, a special trend based on any parameter wasn't determined for C, N and P concentration. Leaf litters of Populus nigra L. and Juglans regia decomposed faster in different area than the area where they were collected. By this study, it was indicated that home field advantage in decomposition is not valid for every species and space.